Mountains, Coastlines, and Ireland’s Most Iconic Walking Routes
County Kerry, at the heart of Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, is the country’s premier destination for walking holidays and outdoor adventures. From the peaks of MacGillycuddy’s Reeks to the dramatic Kerry coastline, it’s a land of contrasts — rugged mountains, lush valleys, island-studded bays, and colourful towns alive with tradition.
For walkers, Kerry is unbeatable: home to Ireland’s most famous long-distance routes, the Kerry Way and the Dingle Way, as well as dramatic trails around the Ring of Kerry, Beara Peninsula, and Skellig Michael — a UNESCO World Heritage Site rising steeply from the Atlantic. Whether you want a challenging multi-day trek or a gentle coastal loop, Kerry delivers variety, heritage, and unforgettable scenery.
Trails & Routes
Walking in Kerry means stepping into Ireland’s most iconic landscapes.
- Kerry Way – a 133-mile circular route through mountains, valleys, and coastline, starting and finishing in Killarney.
- Dingle Way – a 111-mile loop around the Dingle Peninsula, with Atlantic cliffs, sandy beaches, and Gaelic heritage.
- Beara Way – partly in Kerry, this wild and less-travelled trail explores peninsulas, fishing villages, and ancient stone circles.
- Ring of Kerry Loops – shorter circuits linking Glencar, Waterville, and Caherdaniel, perfect for day hikes.
- Skellig Michael – a dramatic offshore pilgrimage site reached by boat, with stone beehive huts perched above the sea.
Adventure Highlights
- The Kerry Way – Ireland’s most popular long-distance trail.
- The Dingle Way – combining wild scenery and Gaelic culture.
- Killarney National Park – lakes, waterfalls, oak woods, and Ireland’s highest mountains.
- Skellig Michael UNESCO World Heritage Site – a dramatic island monastery.
- The Ring of Kerry – one of the world’s most scenic drives, with countless walking loops.
- MacGillycuddy’s Reeks – including Carrauntoohil, Ireland’s highest peak.
- Coastal harbours and traditional towns like Dingle and Kenmare.
Explore the Area
- Killarney – gateway to the National Park, with trails starting at your doorstep.
- Dingle – a harbour town rich in music, food, and cultural heritage.
- Kenmare – a charming town at the meeting of the Ring of Kerry and Beara Peninsula.
- Waterville & Caherdaniel – coastal bases on the Iveragh Peninsula.
- Valentia Island & Skellig Coast – a wild and dramatic Atlantic outpost.
